To find your senators' and
representative's phone numbers, you may use our
searchable
online congressional directory or call the
U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202)224-3121 and ask
for your senators' and/or representative's
office.

Remember that telephone
calls are usually taken by a staff member, not the
member of Congress. Ask to speak with the aide
who handles the issue about which you wish to
comment.

After identifying
yourself, tell the aide you would like to leave a
brief message, such as: "Please tell
Senator/Representative (Name) that I
support/oppose (S.___/H.R.___)."

You will also want to
state reasons for your support or opposition to
the bill. Ask for your senators' or
representative's position on the bill. You may
also request a written response to your telephone
call.

Tips On Writing
Congress

The letter is the most
popular choice of communication with a
congressional office. If you decide to write a
letter, this list of helpful suggestions will
improve the effectiveness of the
letter:

Your purpose for
writing should be stated in the first
paragraph of the letter. If your letter
pertains to a specific piece of legislation,
identify it accordingly, e.g., House bill: H.
R. ____, Senate bill: S.____.

Be courteous, to the
point, and include key information, using
examples to support your position.

Address only one
issue in each letter; and, if possible, keep
the letter to one page.